Digital Book

ABSTRACT

A digital book includes a casing adapted to fold open and shut like a book and having a folding axis, a main part, and a secondary part, together forming a book back part. A display unit consists of at least two parts arranged such that when the casing is folded out, the main part and the secondary part are each presented with at least one screen each, like pages of a book. A control unit has means for receiving, storing, processing, and reproducing information, and an operating unit has operating elements for using the digital book as a device for receiving/processing/reproducing information. A supply unit has a receiving opening and a guide and supply pin, by means of which the digital book can be plugged in when the casing is folded shut, for inputting and outputting information, for supplying energy, and for storing the digital book.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/508,794, which was filed on Jun. 1, 2000, which in turn is a U.S.National Stage application under 35 USC 371 of International PatentApplication No. PCT/EP98/06008, filed on Sep. 21, 1998, which in turnclaims foreign priority of Application No. DE 197 414 53.2, filed onSep. 19, 1997.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a digital book, in particular for thereproduction of book, newspaper and magazine information and otherdocumentation and publications in electronic or digital form by means oftext, graphical, photo and/or video and audio information for operationthrough laymen.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The consumption of paper and with it: the demand for raw materials aregrowing year for year. The ever growing population and the alwaysincreasing demand for information, but also the self-imposedcompetition-induced communication constraint cause an explosion-likeexpanding flood of information which necessitates in always shorterintervals an immense consumption of paper, which thus is not only aburden to the environment but also entails an economic disadvantage asregards the transportation, stock-keeping and recycling costs as wellthe speed necessary to make available publications. Owing to moderninformation technologies it has indeed become possible to produce alarge part of the information via computers, to offer it for instancevia internet, online services or data bases or to market it in the formof CDs, however such information can be consumed by the consumer viaPCs, laptops and notebooks only, which presupposes that at least one ofthe above-mentioned computers is purchased, that necessary applicationsare installed and that one has to be familiar with the use thereofbefore a first publication can be read.

The afore-mentioned reasons and the investment costs associatedtherewith, the necessary time and the, from the view of a technicallayman, special knowledge required for installing and operating hardwareand software make it difficult for a large part of the population totake advantage of electronic publications. But also older or handicappedpersons often do not find access to computers, since, without basicknowledge, operation and handling are not possible for a layman orpossible with difficulties only, or the complexity of the userinterfaces imposes excessive demands on these persons.

Moreover, laptops and notebooks, due to their various drives andmultitude of input and output interfaces for specific applications, areof large volume and weight, and they are equipped with a keyboard forthe entire particular font and with just one single screen or display.However, there are applications in which on the one hand the relativelycostly and space-consuming keyboard is unnecessary and on the other handthe display or display/operating area provided by just one single screenis too small for specific applications.

Laptops and notebooks, due to their purpose as working tool and theconstructionally necessitated or constructional features associatedtherewith, primarily are no ergonomic, i.e. handy and easy-operationmeans of information to take up, e.g. belletristic literature or forreading reports, articles, commentaries and news from magazines andnewspapers or for studying publications in relaxed posture or insituations where no supporting surface is available. Expenditure andtime of operation often stand in no relation to the often spontaneousdemands which moreover are frequently to be settled shortly, e.g.looking up information from a lexicon, a telephone directory or atelevision magazine.

The document U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,888 A1 reveals an electronic bookcomprising two display parts adapted to be folded open in the manner ofa book, as well as a central part joining together these two displayparts.

A simple ergonomic and compact electronic device as actual substitutefor books, magazines or newspapers for universal use in differentsituations in life, which is uncomplicated and comfortable to hold andoperate for technical laymen and at the same time has little opticalirritations for undisturbed reading and manipulating a large variety ofdifferent publications/is not known so far. The electronic book knownfrom U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,888, for handling through the user, requiresoften inconvenient and time-consuming complicated operations since amultitude of keys arranged in inconvenient manner in terms of ergonomicsis to be operated, with the functionality thereof being predeterminedand the space available for the display being thus curtailed. In case ofan electronic book known from U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,888 A1 the operationtakes place with the aid of an auxiliary display on the outside of thebook covers (display elements), with the result that the user must shutthe electronic book in order to carry out specific adjustments.Furthermore, the keys can be operated in single manner only. On thereverse of the central part there is arranged a multitude of electricalconnectors which are hidden behind protective flaps and which, ifnecessary, must be identified by the user with technical knowledge andmust be made accessible by folding up the protective covers. In caseelectrical lines are connected to the electrical connectors, theelectronic book of the prior art can no longer be held on the book backin the manner of a book or be placed on a support.

It is thus the object of the invention to make available a digital bookof the type indicated at the outset, which in contrast to the prior artoffers, despite a compact construction, on the one hand a considerablyenlarged display area and on the other hand handling options that areuser-friendly, simple and easily understandable for computer laymen, toenable the same to read comprehensive literature, e.g. scientific works,encyclopedias or also belletristic literature, in order to offer theadvantage to the user, also in comparison with a conventional morevoluminous and heavier book, to at least read and/or possibly work on anarbitrary number of pages via e.g. just two digital book pages in handyform. The reading and viewing habits of traditional readers of books,magazines and newspapers need to be considered in this respect, whoexpects as irritation-free as possible viewing of the publications ordocument information indicated and are repelled by an impression tooclosely oriented along computer technology, e.g. as regards certainforms of operating elements or due to other overstrain, as it oftenoccurs in case of older people or technical laymen who refuse to use anelectronic or digital book. What is to be ensured in this respect issafe and ergonomic holding and operation in different situations, e.g.when walking, lying or if no other supporting surface is available, aswell as simple and understandable handling with a minimum or lackingprevious knowledge or for instance in case of a handicap. This is toprovide uncomplicated and constant operability despite differentpossibilities of use and a multitude of tasks. It is intended to renderpossible fast and reduced operation with a minimum of changes in postureduring reading.

The object underlying the invention is met by the subject matters of theindependent patent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Advantageous developments of the invention are defined by the featuresindicated in the dependent claims.

The digital book according to the present invention is advantageoussince it represents a genuine alternative to a traditional book,presupposing first of all the viewing and reading habits of the user andrequiring no specific technical (computer) knowledge. Furthermore, incomparison with the known prior art.

-   -   (a) the reading and/or working area is enlarged through        operation by means of rear-side operating elements,    -   (b) pages can be read in the manner of traditional book pages,        without disturbing elements, e.g. menu list, icons, operating        elements etc.,    -   (c) this device can be used without specific preparations in any        situation and in an arbitrary body position, e.g. in case of        confinement to bed of the user.

Multifunction input means (FIG. 11 at 60 h) located in the range ofaction of the holding hand, which can be combined (FIG. 13A through FIG.19C) and can be programmed or switched over under software control (FIG.13A through FIG. 22C) and preferably are formed as keys located on theside directed away from the display area and operated by means of thefingers of the holding hand (FIG. 3 through FIG. 6C, FIG. 11, and FIG.13A through FIG. 19C), with functions being displayed only if requiredand being handled marginally without disturbing the document (FIG. 15Aand FIG. 16A through FIG. 21H):

-   -   (a) faster completion of operating routines    -   (b) minimization of movement and avoiding constant changes in        position of the hand holding the display means    -   (c) reduction of the technical impression and/or expenditure        with utmost utility with the least possible amount of input        elements    -   (d) better distribution of the tasks’ to the individual        fingers e) enlargement of the front display’ area    -   (e) flexibility through the additional possibility of        combination with other input means, such as e.g. the display        area and/or actual operating elements which can also be operated        with the other hand and/or voice input    -   (f) easier orientation e.g. for visually impaired and blind        persons (presupposed is of course the reading out of the book        via an audio output)

User interface (FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B) located on the underside of thedigital book, preferably in the folding hinge of a two-part display unit(FIG. 1 through FIG. 6C and FIG. 11), which is the holding grip of aone-part display unit (FIG. 12H), for coupling by means of cableconnectors preferably with jack plugs, in order to effectively connectdifferent devices, apparatus and means to the book (FIG. 1 through FIG.3, FIG. 5, FIG. 11, FIG. 25 through FIG. 27E) and/or to serve as asupport for the book station (FIG. 5) and to supply data informationand/or energy to the digital book by means of signal transmission (FIG.1):

-   -   (a) uncomplicated connection    -   (b) avoiding damage in case of improper handling    -   (c) redaction of interfaces and associated therewith reduced        production costs    -   (d) book back free from cables and plugs for better placement        e.g. on a table surface or in the lap    -   (e) use both for cable connection and for the holding pin of the        supply station    -   (f) more favorable symmetry and balance in case of possibly,        arising strain loads through connected supply cables    -   (g) lesser irritation through disturbing cables    -   (h) reduction of the “technical impression” on the side of the        user

Ergonomically Shaped Display Back Side and Flexibility

-   -   (a) handier, more Pleasant and safer holding during operation        and transport    -   (b) more compact construction with sensible and. optically        advantageous accommodation of the necessary electronics    -   (c) predetermined bending location for easier bending        (flexibility)    -   (d) protection of operating elements disposed on the rear        side/laterally    -   (e) reduction of the “technical impression” on the side of the        user    -   (f) reduced risk of damage and easy transport

The digital book according to the invention can be used to advantage asa means of reference that can easily be carried along, e.g. ascomprehensive-contents road map, hiking map or the like. Furthermore, ifrequired, comprehensive literature can be carried along on journeyswithout laborious transport of a multitude of traditional books. Thedigital book is suitable in particular also as reference means in placesoffering no large freedom of movement. To be named as an example in thisrespect is in particular the cockpit of a large commercial airplane inwhich usually a multitude of files with examination and operatinginstructions are to be carried along. Especially in emergency situationsis it, important to find corresponding hints quickly withouttime-consuming leafing or page-turning. A conventional notebook or thelike is suitable to a limited extent only because of the complicatedhandling thereof and the susceptibility of its disk drive e.g. in caseof turbulences. Besides, this holds to a high degree for utilizations inprivate aircraft.

A further advantage consists in that at least two screens can be read inthe book page format (upright format) as whole pages, with the at leasttwo screens being adapted to possibly fulfil different functions. Forexample, it is possible to read a full page of a manuscript text and tohave indicated at the same time extracts of text passages on thesecondary screen that were previously marked on the text side, or othervales of the respective (e.g. scientific) book text can be indicatede.g. along with illustrations mentioned on the text side, without thecurrent book page being covered or blanked out thereby. Besides,cross-references, reference hints etc. can be indicated by marking, e.g.by tapping the source mark with the screen pen, without requiring “pageturning”.

Due to the possibility of separating the screens of the digital book, itis possible, starting from a basic configuration thereof (which isintended for reading only), to match the secondary screen to the needsof the user in accordance with the requirement profile and the priorart, and the range of capabilities of the digital book can thus beexpanded. For example, the secondary screen can be designed to bepressure-sensitive whereby a screen page can be written on inhand-writing by means of the screen pen while the written text quasisimultaneously can be indicated on the main screen in printed letters,and optionally in another language by means of a translation function ofthe loaded software. This renders possible e.g. more rapid andconvenient preparation and revision of business letters.

A digital book having a first optimized user interface according to theinvention, for simplified operation with minimum technical information,comprising at least one input unit located. on a right and/or left sideof the digital book for manipulating the information displayed and/orfor effecting a change in operating state and/or setting and/or forloading document information and/or for switching to another operatingmode, however without restriction thereto, with the main inputelement(s) or key element(s) being advantageously disposed in thegripping edge on the side (60 h) of the digital book facing away fromthe display side, such that operations possibly may be carried out at alocation where the display unit (10) is held, by means of the fingers ofthe holding hand.

FIG. 11 shows in exemplary manner an upper left position, preferablythere is provided a position laterally in the middle of a display side,since the central position constitutes a more neutral starting positionfor operation, as will be pointed out in the subsequent description ofthe figures, in which however preferably three combinations keys, shownpreferably in the exemplary figures, can be replaced by other operatingelements, provided that these at least in part fulfil tasks by way oftheir properties, which include for example the selection and activationof information displayed on the display area and/or moving pages and/orat least the option of displaying a first item of information on thedisplay area and/or to release an already displayed first item ofinformation, e.g. by deactivation of an activation blocking means (ES)to be operated via an arbitrary input provided therefor, e.g. viatouchscreen preferably also in the region of lateral gripping edge ofthe display (20). It is left open whether there is only service of realoperating elements and/or in combination with a sensitive display areaand/or in combination with speech, since this is dependent first of all(as shown in FIG. 16A through FIG. 19C) on how the properties of thedisplay medium are designed, e.g. as touchscreen or as a mere displayscreen. It is basically also possible to arrange other operatingelements at other locations of the display unit without affecting thescope of protection.

The operating elements are provided in different designs andarrangements. The operating area may also be equipped e.g. with a slidepad and/or trackball and/or a multifunction key etc. or thecorresponding key areas can be designed as induction areas or switches.

A digital book with an additional optimized user interface according tothe invention for simplified operation with minimum technicalinformation, comprising at least one or plural display area (s) ofsensitive design, via which, by touching an arbitrary, but predeterminedlocation, first operating information of an invisible functional choiceor operating information is made available, i.e. displayed, which can behandled further. This takes place preferably by identification of afunctional choice or functional group to be displayed via fixed positioninformation (60′V) offered, for example, by a first corner of thedisplay area and/or a central location on a lateral side of the displayarea. Preferably, it is provided for the normal reading mode to keepblanked out or invisible a multiplicity of irritating and disturbingfunctions or operating information to be indicated on the display areafor operation and to make available corresponding functional oroperating information only in case of necessity, with all functionsbeing made visible or available either all at once or one functionalgroup separately from at least one further functional group formanipulation thereof. The advantage hereof is an irritation-free orundisturbed document page displayed, similar to a book (illustrativeexamples are shown in FIG. 19A through FIG. 21H).

An additional advantageous development, which however is not restrictedthereby, effecting the installation of functional or operatinginformation by an initialized document, provides the possibility ofseparating the display area into regions allowing the layman sensibleoperation with respect to specific functions of the publicationindicated, e.g. if a coupled memory with document information (50′)makes available all functions and operating information, respectively,required for service of this document, in the display unit in invisiblemanner at that location where the coupled memory is located. The laymanthus has the possibility of requesting only that operating informationthat is directly associated with the initialized document.

A digital book comprising an additional optimized user interfaceaccording to the invention for simplified operation with minimumtechnical information, comprising at least a first solid-state couplingdevice (50) provided preferably in the upper part of the digital bookand serving preferably for a memory card (50′), but being not restrictedthereto, which by means of a coupling operation, preferably by insertionof the solid-state element, triggers one or several processes in thedigital book, which facilitates handling of pages by a laymen insofar ase.g. the content of the coupled solid-state body, without further ado bythe user, endeavors to carry out the task desired e.g. by introductionof the body (50′) into the receiving opening designed for this purpose.For example, the contents of a memory card with book information isdisplayed after successful coupling, without additional activity by theuser, or at least a first item of information is made available thatonly needs to be verified by the user (FIG. 24A through FIG. 24F). Theinitialization request necessary therefor preferably is provided by thedigital book, after identification of the coupled solid-state body. Tothis end, the already known plug and play technology may be used toensure recognition of the solid-state body (cf. in this respect alsoFIG. 22A through FIG. 22C or FIG. 23A through FIG. 23C).

An additional advantageous means for easy operation with minimumtechnical information according to the invention, by coupling one ormore solid-state bodies with the digital book according to theinvention, consists in that these solid-state elements contain softwareand/or hardware components, such as e.g. electronic means (integratedcircuits, battery, memory, transmitter and/or receiver for informationtransfer without cables, etc.) which in some way or other, as outlined,preferably without further ado of the user, expand the range ofcapabilities with regard to the information to be indicated, which isinput into the digital book via the solid-state means, and/or takes overoperating functions that cannot be carried out by the user, or in arestricted scope only, due to lack of an alphanumerical keyboard.

A further advantageous means for simple operation with a minimum oftechnical information, by coupling one or more solid-state bodies withthe digital book according to the invention, is the automaticinstallation and/or setting of the digital book—effected by coupling ofa solid-state memory with the digital book, fox: example by programmingthe functional keys of the digital book for optimum handling of thedocument stored in the solid-state memory (FIG. 22A through FIG. 22C)and the corresponding operating information and/or e.g. the automaticswitching over from a separate-display operating mode to acombined-display operating mode, and vice versa, preferablyautomatically by coupling and/or decoupling a first and/or secondsolid-state memory with document information to be displayed (FIG. 23Athrough FIG. 23C).

A digital book with an additional optimized user interface according tothe invention for simplified operation with a minimum of technicalinformation makes use of a coupling by means of cable connectors viapreferably only one interface on the bottom side of the digital book(70′), preferably in the pivot hinge of the book in case of two-part ormulti-part display sections which in case of one-part display sectionsis the gripping handle, for receiving for example a jack plug (70′).This provides the advantage that the interface is sturdy, uncomplicatedin operation and that the contact positions necessary for establishingcontact can be accommodated along an arbitrary length of the jack plug,since introduction is not hindered by the constructionally necessitateddepth of the digital book. The preferably only one interface is designedsuch that the electronic means of the digital book can be effectivelyconnected to a large variety of different devices, means and apparatusby means of signals for transmitting data for example in bidirectionaland serial fashion and/or energy. To this end, it is possible to coupledifferent peripheral apparatus, such as e.g. printers and/or telephoneand/or modem and/or PCs and/or laptops and/or charging devices, whichare cited as examples only. For doing so, the layman user just needs toplug in the corresponding cable connector and latch the same, if thereare provisions to this effect. Another function of this interfaceconsists in receiving the guide and supply pin of the book station,which has the task of supplying energy and/or data information to thedigital book, which for example in accordance with the particular designcan be provided on the book station or in the digital book. This supplyplug at the same time serves as a stabilization pin (FIG. 5 at 7) of thedigital book to be arranged thereon in upright position, namely astwo-part book in the closed state and/or as one-part book in the openedstate via the interface integrated in the handle (not shown).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will be described in detail in thefollowing with reference to a number of drawing figures:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic plan view of a display-part coupling embodimentof the digital book according to the invention with two display parts inthe folded open condition of the book casing along with schematicallyindicated installations and additional elements for the digital book,including the separating and coupling possibilities of the essentialparts thereof.

FIG. 2 shows a simplified schematic plan view of the display-partcoupling embodiment of the digital book according to the invention withtwo display parts in the folded open state of the book casing along withadditional elements, similar to the representation shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic side view of a permanently connected embodimentand/or of the main part of the display-part coupling embodiment of thedigital book with two display parts, along with preferably juxtaposedcombination key elements in the region of the gripping edge foroperation thereof.

FIG. 4 shows, partly in section, a bottom view of the permanentlyconnected embodiment and/or the display-part coupling embodiment of theclosed digital, book according to the invention with two display parts,for use of the preferably juxtaposed combination key elements in theregion of the gripping edge for operation e.g. by a left-handed and/orright-handed person if e.g. a display area adapted to be written on isdisposed on the right side of the digital book.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the permanently connected and/ordisplay-part coupling embodiment of the digital book according to theinvention with two display parts in the closed condition for using ‘thepreferably juxtaposed combination key elements in the region of thegripping edge for operation, as well as a perspective view of a supplyunit.

FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C show different perspective views, in the“folded-open” state, of a permanently connected and/or a display-partcoupling embodiment of the digital book according to the invention,comprising two display parts, for reading and/or writing on a displayarea adapted to be written on.

FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C, FIG. 7D, FIG. 7E, and FIG. 7F show differentrepresentations, constituting however no restriction, of the permanentlyconnected and/or the display-part coupling embodiment of the digitalbook according to the invention with one, two and three display parts invarious situations of use, from which various advantages of the digitalbook are apparent.

FIG. 8 shows a representation of a possible structure of the secondarypart of a display-part coupling embodiment of the digital book accordingto the invention in the form of a double screen, similar to a foldingmap or a time organizer in the “folded open” state of the digital bookfor use with three screens.

FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B show representations of the same embodiment as shownin FIG. 8, in the folded together or “folded shut” state of the digitalbook.

FIG. 10 shows an exemplary block circuit diagram of the display-partcoupling embodiment of the digital book according to the invention inthe form of a. configuration of units and components for operation ofthe digital book, however without restriction to this block circuitdiagram.

FIG. 11 shows a representation of the permanently connected and/ordisplay-part coupling embodiment of the digital book according to theinvention, however without restriction thereto, and of the optimizeduser interfaces underlying the invention for simple operation by alayman and for reducing technical information.

FIG. 12A, FIG. 12B, FIG. 12C, FIG. 12D, FIG. 12E, FIG. 12F, FIG. 12G,and FIG. 12H show representations of different modes of appearance ofthe digital book according to the invention, however without restrictionthereto, in the form of a one-part or multipart, permanently connectedor display-part coupling embodiment.

FIG. 13A, FIG. 13B, FIG. 13C, FIG. 13D, FIG. 13E, and FIG. 13F show thepartial aspects underlying the digital book according to the invention,for optimizing, i.e. simplifying operation along with simultaneousreduction of irritating information and/or technical designs.

FIG. 14A, FIG. 14B, FIG. 14C, and FIG. 14D, by way of an example of afolded-open two-part digital book according to the invention, howeverwithout restriction thereto, show the provision of operating informationand the further handling thereof by means of operating elements locatedaway from the display area and/or by means of an input via a sensitiveinput area, as well as the provision of first functional information aswell as further operation via the sensitive input area.

FIG. 15A, FIG. 15B, FIG. 15C, FIG. 15D, and FIG. 15E show the functionalpossibilities of a minimum configuration of operating elements of thedigital book according to the invention, comprising a first function forcarrying out a first task, using as example the provision of selectioninformation on the display area and the automatic andsoftware-controlled reprogramming of the operating elements followingafter first operation, for fulfilling a second task, e.g. selectingand/or activating a selected function, or deactivating of the provision.

FIG. 16A, FIG. 16B, FIG. 16C, FIG. 16D, and FIG. 16E show the generalcombination possibility of an input area of the digital book accordingto the invention, using as example three real operating elements andtheir programming with regard to a first function and additional firstfunctions possible by combined operation, as well as the automaticsoftware-controlled reprogramming of the operating elements through afirst operating step, for fulfilling a second task in a second operatingstep.

FIG. 17A, FIG. 17B, FIG. 17C, and FIG. 17D, by way of the example ofone-part and two-part display sections of the digital book according tothe invention, show the programming of the three operating elements fora digital book, which are preferably disposed on the rear side, in whichoperation is accomplished only via real operating elements.

FIG. 18A, FIG. 18B, FIG. 18C, FIG. 18D, and FIG. 18E, by way of theexample of one-part and two-part display sections with an additionalinput possibility via the display area (touchscreen), show theprogramming of the three operating elements for a digital book, whichare preferably disposed on the rear side, in which the real operatingelements in a first function realize the provision of operatinginformation on the display area, for possible subsequent furtherprocessing or operation via a sensitive display area.

FIG. 19A, FIG. 19B, and FIG. 19C, by way of the example of one-part andtwo-part display sections, show the programming of the three operatingelements for a digital book, which are arranged preferably on the rearside, as rapid-function operating elements for frequent routineoperations, using as example a first function of simple-operationoperating elements, for example for moving the pages within a bookdocument and processing of not so often needed functions via the displayarea, with these functions being made available by touching a locationon the display area and being programmed for example by initializationof a coupled book document.

FIG. 20A, FIG. 20B, FIG. 20C, FIG. 20D, and FIG. 20E, by way of theexample of a corner function and a function in the middle of a lateraledge displayed in the display area, show an embodiment of FIG. 19Athrough FIG. 19C, with lateral edge operations in the region of thegripping edge of the display unit being realized in a document edgeand/or frame, in order not to irritate or disturb a displayed document.

FIG. 21A, FIG. 21B, FIG. 21C, FIG. 21D, FIG. 21E, FIG. 21F, FIG. 21G,and FIG. 21H, by way of the example of two corner, functions displayedin the display area, show an embodiment of FIG. 19A through FIG. 19C, inwhich the lateral edge operations in the region of the gripping edge arerealized in a document edge and/or frame in addition, in order not toirritate or disturb a displayed document.

FIG. 22A, FIG. 22B, and FIG. 22C, by way of the example of a one-partembodiment of the present invention, show the automatic andsoftware-controlled programming of operating elements and the resultingchange it the displayed operating information by a coupled memory mediumor an initialized document.

FIG. 23A, FIG. 23B, and FIG. 23C, by way of the example of a two-partembodiment of the present invention, show the automatic switching overof a combined-display operating mode, during coupling of a second bookdocument with: the digital book, to a separate-display operating modewith corresponding display of the document on the display area as wellas automatic switching over from a separate-display operating mode to acombined-display operating mode associated with a reverse process.

FIG. 24A, FIG. 24B, FIG. 24C, FIG. 24D, FIG. 24E, and FIG. 24F, by wayof the example of a two-part embodiment of the digital book according tothe invention, shows the activation and/or deactivation process of thedigital book associated with coupling of a solid-state memory, as wellas the attempt of installing and/or displaying the contents of thesolid-state memory, which is effected automatically by coupling saidsolid-state element.

FIG. 25, by way of the example: of a two-part embodiment of the digitalbook according to the invention, shows the coupling possibility ofdifferent external apparatus or means via a multifunction interfacearranged at the bottom side of the digital book and designed asinterface for cable connectors and/or of the supply station.

FIG. 26A, FIG. 26B, FIG. 26C, and FIG. 26D show in exemplary manner ahardware coupling and decoupling possibility by attaching or removingdifferent hardware parts via the pivot hinge of a two-part digital book,which upon removing a part is the gripping handle of a one-part digitalbook, in which electronics is accommodated.

FIG. 27A, FIG. 27B, FIG. 27C, FIG. 27D, and FIG. 27E, by way of theexample of a one-part starting basis, show the coupling of an exemplarygripping handle, as described in FIG. 26A through FIG. 26E, or of a bookcover of an arbitrary material shown to be flexible in the example, orthe coupling of a laptop keyboard.

FIG. 28A, FIG. 28B, FIG. 28C, FIG. 28D, FIG. 28E, FIG. 28F, FIG. 28G,and FIG. 28H show the ergonomic design of the present invention alongwith the thus created compact construction and the improved holding andoperating possibilities, both of a one-part and of a multi-part digitalbook.

FIG. 29A, FIG. 29B, and FIG. 29C show a flexible digital book accordingto the invention by way of the example of a display part, and theflexible design at least of the body or casing comprising the displayarea, as an example of a pressure-sensitive design possibility e.g. byusing an electronics-enclosing casing of foamed material,

FIG. 30A, FIG. 30B, and FIG. 30C show a flexible digital book accordingto the invention, by way of the example of a display part, and theflexible design of display area and casing, as an example of an at leastpartly flexible design possibility by tightening e.g. a polymer displayin a casing frame on two sides.

FIG. 31A, FIG. 31B, FIG. 31C, FIG. 31D, and FIG. 31E show severalflexible digital books according to the invention by way of the exampleof one or two display parts with operating possibility, in which forexample one or several polymer displays are adhered in at least partlytransparent plastics or plastics-similar material for strengthening.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows a schematic plan view of a display-part coupling embodimentof the digital book according to the invention, comprising two displayparts 1, 2, in the folded open condition of the book casing along withschematically indicated installations and additional elements EP, EP2,HP, NP2, 14, 5, 5′, B for the digital book adapted to be coupled,including the separation and connecting possibilities of the essentialparts thereof. A casing of the two-part embodiment, adapted to be foldedopen and shut in the manner of a book, comprises at least one foldingaxis A, a main part I and at least one secondary part 2, said parts 1, 2forming together a book back part. Parts 1, 2 are combined so as to bemechanically and/or electrically separable, with the necessaryelectrical connections of both parts 1, 2 being established for exampleby sliding contacts S, S′. Shown schematically are furthermore a mainpart circuit board HP, a secondary part circuit board NP as well asextension circuit boards EP, EP2, which are interconnected via bus lines14. Formed in the casing is an insertion channel 5 with a reading means,for insertion of a PC card 5′ or the like, which in essence is used forloading the digital book and contains e.g. book texts, graphics,operating programs etc. The casing comprises furthermore an operatingunit 6 with a plurality of operating elements, preferably individuallyor in combination with operating keys (cp. e.g. FIG. 3).

FIG. 2: The display-part coupling embodiment of the digital bookaccording to the invention contains a display unit 1, 2, 3, 4 which isat least of two-part construction and is arranged such that the mainpart 1 with at least one screen 3 and the secondary part 2 with at leastone screen 4, in the folded-open state of the casing, present themselvesto the user, like pages of a book, for looking at and optionally, forworking on as required (cp. also FIG. 2).

FIG. 3: The display part of the main part of the display-part couplingembodiment of the digital book according to the invention, in the closedcondition of the casing, is adapted to be plugged into a supply unit VE(cf. FIG. 5) via a guide and supply pin 7 having a pair of power supplycontacts 8 and a multiplicity of contact rings 9 for supplying andoutputting information, said supply unit VE having a supply unit openingVE′ for inputting and outputting information signals and/or forsupplying energy and for accommodating the digital book (cp. FIG. 5).The book back part BR contains furthermore a light-emitting diode L forindicating the charging state of battery B. The juxtaposed combinationkey elements are arranged in the region of the gripping edge.

In a modified embodiment, math part and secondary’ part may also befixedly or permanently connected to each other in pivotable manner,without the provision that both parts can be separated from each other.

FIG. 4 shows partly in section a bottom view of the main part of thepermanently connected and/or of the display-part coupling; embodiment ofthe closed digital book according to the invention for use e.g. by aleft-hander and/or a right-hander if e.g. a display area adapted to bewritten on is disposed on the right side of the digital book, with therepresentation containing the elements described hereinbefore. Thecasing contains, in a guide and supply opening 7′, countercontacts 8′for power supply and/or countercontacts 9′ for inputting and outputtinginformation. The book back part BR (cp. also FIG. 3) is provided with apreferably rechargeable battery B for power supply of the electronicunits and components of the digital book and for driving the screens 3,4.

FIG. 5 shows, as already indicated, a perspective view of thepermanently connected and/or of the display-part coupling embodimentwith two display parts of the digital book according to the invention inthe closed state, as well as a perspective view of a supply unit VEhaving a receiving opening VE′. The guide and supply pin projecting fromthe supply unit serves, among other things, for stabilization of thedigital book in the supply unit. The digital book is shown in relationto the supply unit VE in a condition during removal of the digital bookor in a condition during introduction of the same into the supply unitVE. Supply unit VE comprises a connecting cable 89 for inputting and/oroutputting information, for example from and/or to a PC and/or a modem,and/or for supplying energy for powering the electronic units andcomponents and for driving the screens of the digital book. Juxtaposedcombination key elements are arranged in the region of the grippingedge.

FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, and FIG. 6C show different perspective views in the“folded open” condition a permanently connected and/or a display-partcoupling embodiment of the digital book according to the invention withtwo display parts, for reading and/or e.g. writing on a display areaadapted to be written on. Writing on the display area adapted to bewritten own and designed to be pressure-sensitive, in the example shown,takes place by means of a screen pen 15. Instead of using screen pen 15for marking or triggering a specific function, it is of course alsopossible to press with a fingertip against a specific location of thescreen, as it is known in connection with the so-called touchscreen.

FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C, FIG. 7D, FIG. 7E, and FIG. 7F show, asalready indicated, different representations of the permanentlyconnected and/or of the display-part coupling embodiment with one, twoand three display parts of the digital book according to the inventionin different applications, these representations indicating variousadvantages of the digital book.

FIG. 8 shows the representation of a possible structure of a secondarypart 2 a, 2 b in form a double screen 4 a, 4 b similar to a folding mapor time organizer in the “folded open” condition of the digital book foran application with three screens 3, 4 a, 4 b. In the embodiment shownthe casing of the digital book comprises two folding axes A1, A2.

FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B show representations of the same embodiment as shownin FIG. 8, in the folded together or “folded shut” condition of thedigital book.

FIG. 10 shows, as already indicated, a block circuit diagram of thedisplay-part coupling embodiment of the digital book according to theinvention, showing the configuration of units and components foroperating the digital book. In addition to the elements describedhereinbefore, the block circuit diagram comprises a display unit Dhaving two screens 3, 4, two screen drivers or graphic cards 3′, 4′, acontrol unit 10 with means for. receiving, storing, processing andreproducing information, in which the information may be present in the:form of text, image, graphical, audio and/or video information, aninterface unit 11 for inputting and outputting information and forsupply energy, said interface unit 11 including an information interface12 and a power supply means 12 for supplying power to the units D, 10,11 from the supply unit VE, Control unit 10 contains an EPROM, a RON, aRAM, a CPU, a control means ST and a driver circuit TR, with theseelements being interconnected via a bus line BL. The screen drivers orgraphic cards 3′, 4′, the operating unit 6 with its operating elements,the control unit 10 and the information interface 12 are connected toeach other via the afore-mentioned bus line 14.

FIG. 11 shows a representation of the permanently connected and/or ofthe display-part coupling embodiment with two display parts of thedigital book according to the invention, and the optimized userinterfaces for simple operation by a layman and for reducing technicalinformation, with five individual

FIG. 11 shows a digital book according to the invention comprising anoptimized user interface for simplified operation with a minimum oftechnical information, having at least one manipulation region 60 hlocated on the right and/or left side of the digital book, in particularfor manipulating the displayed information and/or for effecting a changein operating state and/or setting and/or for loading documentinformation and/or for switching over to a different mode of operation,with the manipulation region 60 h in this embodiment having functionalkeys F1, F2, F3 arranged on the rear side (i.e. the side directed awayfrom the display area) as well as a pressure-sensitive input region 60 ton the front side. Input region 60 t optionally may also be realized byother technical means, e.g. capacitive proximity switches, miniaturekeys.

The manipulation region 60 h is arranged such that manipulationoperations should be possible at a location where the display unit 10 isheld, by means of the fingers of the holding hand. FIG. 11 shows inexemplary manner an upper left position, and preferably there isprovided a position in the middle of a lateral edge of a display side,since the middle position constitutes a more neutral starting positionfor operation, as will be pointed out in the subsequent description ofthe figures; there are provided preferably three combination keys.

At least in part fulfil tasks by way of their properties, which includefor example the selection and activation of information displayed on thedisplay area and/or moving pages and/or at least the option ofdisplaying a first item of information on the display area and/or torelease an already displayed first item of information, e.g. bydeactivation of an activation blocking means (ES) to be actuated via anarbitrary input provided therefor, e.g. via touchscreen preferably alsoin the range of the lateral gripping edge of the display (20). It isleft open whether there is only service of real operating elementsand/or in combination with a sensitive display area and/or incombination with speech, since this is dependent first of all (as shownin FIG. 16A through FIG. 19C) on how the properties of the displaymedium are designed, e.g. as touchscreen or as a mere display screen. Itis basically also possible to arrange other operating elements at otherlocations of the display unit without affecting the scope of protection.The operating elements are provided in different designs andarrangements. The operating area may also be equipped e.g. with a slidepad and/or trackball and/or a multifunction key etc. or thecorresponding key areas can be designed as induction areas or switches.

A digital book with an additional optimized user interface according tothe invention for simplified operation with minimum technicalinformation, comprising at least one or plural display area(s) ofsensitive design, via which, by touching an arbitrary, but predeterminedlocation, first operating information of an invisible functional choiceor operating information is made available, i.e. displayed, which can behandled further. This takes place preferably by identification of afunctional choice or functional group to be displayed via fixed positioninformation (60′V) offered, for example, by a first corner of thedisplay area and/or a central location on a lateral side of the displayarea. Preferably, it is provided for the normal reading mode to keepblanked out or invisible a multiplicity of irritating and disturbingfunctions or operating information to be indicated on the display areafor operation and to make available corresponding functional oroperating information only in case of necessity, with all functionsbeing made visible or available either all at once or one functionalgroup separately from at least one further functional group formanipulation thereof. The advantage hereof is an irritation-free orundisturbed document page displayed, similar to a book (illustrativeexamples are shown in FIG. 19A through FIG. 21H). An additionaladvantageous development, which however is not restricted thereby,effecting the installation of functional or operating information by aninitialized document, provides the possibility of separating the displayarea into regions, allowing the layman sensible operation with respectto specific functions of the publication indicated, e.g. if a coupledmemory with document information (50′) makes available all functions andoperating information, respectively, required for service of thisdocument, in the display unit in invisible manner at that location wherethe coupled memory is located. The layman thus has the possibility ofrequesting only that operating information that is directly associatedwith the initialized document.

A digital book comprising an additional optimized user interfaceaccording to the invention for simplified operation with minimumtechnical information, comprising at least a first solid-state couplingdevice (50) provided preferably in the upper part of the digital bookand serving preferably for a memory card (50′), but being not restrictedthereto, which by means of a coupling operation, preferably by insertionof the solid-state element, triggers one or several processes in thedigital book, which facilitates handling of pages by a laymen insofar ase.g. the content of the coupled solid-state body, without further ado bythe user, endeavors to carry out the task desired e.g. by introductionof the body (50′) into the receiving opening designed for this purpose.For example, the contents of a memory card with book information isdisplayed after successful coupling, without additional activity by theuser, or at least a first item of information is made available thatonly needs to be verified by the user (FIG. 24A through FIG. 24F). Theinitialization request necessary therefor preferably is provided by thedigital book, after identification of the coupled solid-state body. Tothis end, the already known plug and play technology may be used toensure recognition of the solid-state body (cf. in this respect alsoFIG. 22A through FIG. 22C or FIG. 23A through FIG. 23C).

An additional advantageous means for easy operation with minimumtechnical information according to the invention, by coupling one ormore solid-state bodies with the digital book according to theinvention, consists in that these solid-state elements contain softwareand/or hardware components, such as e.g. electronic means (integratedcircuits, battery, memory, transmitter and/or receiver for informationtransfer without cables, etc.) which in some way or other, as outlined,preferably without further ado of the user, expand the range ofcapabilities with regard to the information to be indicated, which isinput into the digital book via the solid-state means and/or takes overoperating functions that cannot be carried out by the user, or in arestricted scope only, due to lack of an alphanumerical keyboard.

A further advantageous means for simple operation with a minimum oftechnical information, by coupling one or more solid-state bodies withthe digital book according to the invention, is the automaticinstallation and/or setting of the digital book-effected by coupling ofa solid-state memory with the digital book, for example by programmingthe functional keys of the digital book for optimum handling of thedocument stored in the solid-state memory (FIG. 22A through FIG. 22C)and the corresponding operating information and/or e.g. the automaticswitching over from a separate-display operating mode to acombined-display operating mode, and vice versa, preferablyautomatically by coupling and/or decoupling a first and/or secondsolid-state memory with document information to be displayed (FIG. 23Athrough FIG. 23C).

A. digital book with an additional optimized user interface according tothe invention for simplified, operation with a minimum of technicalinformation makes use of a coupling by means of cable connectors viapreferably only one interface on the bottom side of the digital book(70′), preferably in the pivot hinge of the book in case of two-part ormulti-part display sections which in case of one-part display sectionsis the gripping handle, for receiving for example a jack plug (70′).This provides the advantage that the interface is sturdy, uncomplicatedin operation and that the contact positions necessary for establishingcontact can be accommodated along an arbitrary length of the jack plug,since introduction is not hindered by the constructionally necessitateddepth of the digital book. The preferably only one interface is designedsuch that the electronic means of the digital book can be effectivelyconnected to a large variety of different devices, means and apparatusby means of signals for transmitting data for example in bidirectionaland serial fashion and/or energy. To this end, it is possible to coupledifferent peripheral apparatus, such as e.g. printers and/or telephoneand/or modem and/or PCs and/or laptops and/or charging devices, whichare cited as examples only.

For doing so, the layman user just needs to plug in the correspondingcable connector and latch the same, if there are provisions to thiseffect. Another function of this interface consists in receiving theguide and supply pin of the book station, which has the task ofsupplying energy and/or data information to the digital book, which forexample in accordance with the particular design can be provided on thebook station or in the digital book. This supply plug at the same timeserves as a stabilization pin (FIG. 5 at 7) of the digital book to bearranged thereon in upright position, namely as two-part book in theclosed state and/or as one-part book in the opened state via theinterface integrated in the handle (not shown).

A first optimized user interface for simple operation by a layman andfor reducing irritating technical information, is at least one inputunit located on a right and/or left side of the digital book formanipulating the information displayed and/or for effecting a change inoperating state and/or setting and/or for loading document informationand/or for switching to another mode of operation, however without beingrestricted thereto, with the main input element (s) or key element (s)being advantageously disposed in the gripping edge on the side (60 h) ofthe digital book facing away from the display side, such that it shouldbe possible to carry out operations at a location where the display unit(10) is held, by means of the fingers of the holding hand. In thisrespect, there is shown in exemplary manner an upper left position, andpreferably there is provided a position laterally in the middle of adisplay side since the middle position constitutes a more neutralstarting position for operation, as will be pointed out in thesubsequent description of the figures.

Just as little restrictive is the use of three combinations keys, shownas preferred number in the embodiment illustrated, however, these can bereplaced by other operating elements, provided that these at least inpart fulfil tasks by way of their properties, which include for examplethe selection and activation of information displayed on the displayarea and/or moving pages and/or at least the option of displaying afirst item of information on the display area and/or to release analready displayed first item of information, e.g. by deactivation of anactivation blocking means (ES) to be operated via an arbitrary inputprovided therefor, e.g. via touchscreen preferably also in the region ofthe lateral gripping edge of the display (20). The embodiment shownleaves open whether there is only service of real operating elementsand/or in combination with a sensitive display area and/or incombination with speech, since this is dependent first of all on how theproperties of the display medium are designed, e.g. as touchscreen or asa mere display screen. It is basically also possible to arrange otheroperating elements at other locations of the display unit withoutaffecting the scope of protection. The operating elements are providedin different designs and arrangements. For example, the operating areamay also be equipped e.g. with a slide pad and/or a trackball and/or amultifunction key etc., or the corresponding key areas can be providedas induction areas or switches.

An additional optimized user interface for simple operation by a laymanand for reducing irritating technical information, consists in one orplural display area(s) of sensitive design, via which, by touching anarbitrary, but predetermined location, first operating information of aninvisible functional choice or operating information is made available,i.e. displayed, which can be handled further. This takes placepreferably by identification of a functional choice or functional groupto be displayed via fixed position information (60′V), which is offered,for example, by a first corner of the display area and/or a centrallocation on a lateral side of the display area. Preferably, it isprovided for the normal reading mode to keep blanked out or invisible amultiplicity of irritating and disturbing functions or operatinginformation to be indicated on the display area for operation and tomake available corresponding functional or operating information only incase of necessity, with all functions being made visible or availableeither all at once or one functional group separately from at least onefurther functional group for manipulation thereof. The advantage hereofis an irritation-free or undisturbed document page displayed, similar toa book (illustration examples are shown in FIG. 19A through FIG. 21H).An additional advantageous development, which however is not restrictedthereby, effecting the installation of functional or operatinginformation by an initialized document, provides the possibility ofseparating the display area into regions allowing the layman sensibleoperation with respect to specific functions of the publicationindicated, e.g. if a coupled memory with document information (50′)makes available ail functions and operating information, respectively,required for service of this document, in the display unit in invisiblemanner at that location where the coupled memory is located. The laymanthus has the possibility of requesting only that operating informationthat is directly associated with the initialized document.

An additional optimized user interface for simple operation by a laymanand for reducing irritating technical information, consists in at leasta first solid-state coupling device (50) provided in the upper part ofthe digital book and serving preferably for a memory card (50′), butbeing not restricted thereto, which by means of a coupling operation,preferably by insertion of the solid-state element, triggers one orseveral processes in the digital book, which facilitates handling ofpages by a laymen insofar as e.g. the content of the coupled solid-statebody, without further ado by the user, endeavors to carry out the taskdesired e.g. by introduction of the element (50′) into the receivingopening designed for this purpose.

For example, the contents of a memory card with book information isdisplayed after successful coupling, without additional activity by theuser, or at least a first item of information is made available thatonly needs to be verified by the user (FIG. 24A through FIG. 24F). Theinitialization request necessary therefor preferably is provided by thedigital book, after identification of the coupled solid-state body. Tothis end, the already known plug and play technology may be used toensure recognition of the solid-state body (cf. in this respect alsoFIG. 22A through FIG. 22C or FIG. 23 A through FIG. 23C).

An additional advantageous means for easy operation by coupling one ormore solid-state elements with the digital book according to theinvention, however without restriction thereto, consists in that thesesolid-state elements contain software and/or hardware components, suchas e.g. electronic means (integrated circuits, battery, memory,transmitter and/or receiver for information transfer without cables,etc.) which in some way or other, as outlined, preferably withoutfurther ado of the user, expand the range of capabilities with regard tothe information to be indicated, which is input into the digital bookvia the solid-state means, and/or takes over operating functions thatcannot be carried out by the user, or in a restricted scope only, due tolack of an alphanumerical keyboard. A further advantageous means forsimple operation by coupling one or more solid-state bodies with thedigital book according to the invention, however without restrictionthereto, is the automatic installation and/or setting of the digitalbook—effected by coupling of a solid-state memory with the digital book,for example by programming the functional keys of the digital book foroptimum handling of the document stored :in the solid-state memory (FIG.22A through FIG. 22C) and the corresponding operating information and/ore.g. the automatic switching over from a separate-display operating modeto a combined-display operating mode, and vice versa, preferablyautomatically by coupling and/or decoupling a first and/or secondsolid-state memory with document information to be displayed (FIG. 23Athrough FIG. 23C).

An additional optimized user interface for easy operation by a laymanand for reducing irritating technical information makes use of acoupling by means of cable connectors via preferably only one interfaceon the bottom side of the digital book (70′), preferably in the pivothinge of the book in case of two-part or multi-part display sectionswhich in case of one-part display sections is the gripping handle, forreceiving for example a jack plug (70′). This provides the advantagethat the interface is sturdy, uncomplicated in operation and that thecontact positions necessary for establishing contact can be accommodatedalong an arbitrary length of the jack plug, since introduction is nothindered by the constructionally necessitated depth of the digital book.The preferably only one interface is designed such that the electronicmeans of the digital book can be effectively connected to a largevariety of different devices, means and apparatus by means of signalsfor transmitting data for example in bidirectional and serial fashionand/or energy. To this end, it is possible to couple differentperipheral apparatus, such as e.g. printers and/or telephone and/ormodem and/or PCs and/or laptops and/or charging devices, which are citedas examples only. For doing so, the layman user just needs to plug inthe corresponding cable connector and latch the same, if there areprovisions to this effect. Another function of this interface consistsin receiving the guide and supply pin of the book station, which has thetask of supplying energy and/or data information to the digital book,which for example in accordance with the particular design can beprovided on the book station or in the digital book. This supply plug atthe same time serves as a stabilization pin (FIG. 5 at 7) of the digitalbook to be arranged thereon in upright position, namely as two-part bookin the closed state and/or as one-part book in the opened state via theinterface integrated in the handle (not shown).

FIG. 12A through FIG. 12H show a representation of different forms ofappearance of the digital book according to the invention, howeverwithout restriction thereto, as one-part or multi-part, permanentlyconnected or display-part coupling embodiment.

FIG. 13A through FIG. 13F show the partial aspects underlying thedigital book according to the invention for optimizing i.e. simplifyingoperation along with a simultaneous reduction of irritating informationand/or technical, designs by bundling the tasks and the correspondinginput facilities concentrated in a portion.

There are shown two partial regions (first region shown in FIG. 13A,FIG. 13C, and FIG. 13E and second region shown in FIG. 13B, FIG. 13D,and FIG. 13F) representing the decisive aspects of the invention, whichare related to each other, but also play a significant role separatelyfrom each other. On the basis of an embodiment, an opened digital bookon the left side (first region shown in FIG. 13A, FIG. 13C, and FIG.13E), which shows the manipulation of displayed information by means ofa cursor, the first region illustrates all partial aspects whichtogether and/or separately from each other play a decisive role insimplifying operation of the digital book. This includes the reductionof the operating expenditure and the operating information via thepossibility of operating section or key programming 6OTPr of aninitialized document Doc, which preferably is carried out automaticallyupon coupling of the information-carrying solid-state memory 50.

A further aspect FIG. 13C is the reduction of the operating expenditureand operating information by combination of input possibilities, such ase.g. real operating elements 60 which are combined with virtualoperating elements 60′ and 60′V and/or with speech input SpE, with thereal operating elements preferably being adapted to be mutuallycombined, whereby the number of required operating elements can bereduced as well. In the illustrated embodiment, there are employed threekeys 60, by means of which a multiplicity of functions can be carriedout in the manner indicated hereinbefore. Further optimization of theoperating function consists in distributing the operating elements tothe fingers of the holding hand (FIG. 13C) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 holding thedisplay means, such that preferably the index finger 1, the middlefinger 2 and the ring finger 3 operate the function keys, which renderspossible considerably faster operation, while the small finger servesfor locking the display part and the thumb is freely movable in order toeffect, possibly in combination with speech and/or the real operatingelements or alone, operation of the virtual operating elements, i.e.input elements 60′ displayed on the display area. To this end, the realoperating elements 60 are preferably disposed on the rear side of adisplay area.

Further optimization of the operating functions (FIG. 13E) is thecompressed arrangement of the operating elements AB in a portion FBh,which during holding of the display can be operated by means of thefingers, with said portion being preferably the area in the region ofthe lateral gripping edge, where the display-holding hand is situatedmost frequently, i.e. under ergonomic aspects in the middle region of adisplay side, since this location is the most balanced one for holdingthe display unit and is the most neutral one for operation by aleft-hander or right-hander.

On the basis of an additional illustrative embodiment, in which anopened digital book is shown on the right side (second region shown inFIG. 13B, FIG. 13D, and FIG. 13F) without indicating operating elements,the second region shows all partial aspects of what, either commonlyand/or separately from each other, plays a decisive role in reducing theelements disturbing or irritating in reading a document.

This includes the reduction of the real operating elements 60 to anecessary minimum and/or hiding the operating elements 60 h e.g. on theside of the display unit (FIG. 13D) directed away from the display side.FIG. 13D illustrates the hidden arrangement of virtual manipulationelements, i.e. function elements 60′, i.e. elements to be operated viathe display area, which are made visible in common or separately fromeach other only in case of necessity, such that no first functionalinformation for identifying e.g. a menu, is available and just theposition of a first input possibility 60′EF in relation to the displayarea provides orientation as to what functions are to be made available.Preferably, the corners 60′EF or central sides in the middle (not shown)of the display area serve for orientation. FIG. 13D shows furthermore anactivation protection section 60ES which avoids inadvertent activationof a displayed or not displayed function 60′ in the region of thegripping edge. To this end, an input e.g. via speech SpE or a realoperating element 60′, 60 or a different location on the display area,for example a corner 60MSF, is made for cancelling the input protectionso that a function can be carried out. A further possibility of reducingdisturbing elements (FIG. 13F) concerns already available operating andfunctional information, respectively, which for avoiding irritation of adisplayed document, is located in an edge or a frame laterally of thedocument 60FR displayed, similar to the edge of a book or thepasse-partout of a picture.

The operation concentrated to a specific region, preferably withrear-side or lateral combination keys which advantageously should not bemore than three mutually separate operating elements, however withoutrestriction thereto, provides better distribution of a multiplicity oftasks and the functions associated therewith in consideration of thecalmest possible or most relaxed position during carrying or holding thedisplay unit.

FIG. 14A through FIG. 14D, by way of the example of a folded open,two-part digital book according to the invention, however withoutrestriction thereto, show the provision of operating information and thefurther handling thereof by means of operating elements facing away fromthe display area and/or by input via a sensitive input area, as well asthe provision of a first item of functional information and the furtherprocessing thereof via the sensitive input area.

FIG. 15A through FIG. 15E show functional possibilities of a minimumconfiguration of operating elements of the digital book according to theinvention, comprising a first function to perform a first task, using asexample the provision of select information on the display area and theautomatic and software-controlled reprogramming of the operatingelements following said first operation, for fulfilling a second task,e.g. the selection and/or activation of a selected function ordeactivation of said provision.

FIG. 16A through FIG. 16E show the general combination possibility of aninput area of the digital book according to the invention, using asexample three real operating elements and their programming with regardto a first function and additional first functions rendered possible bycombined operation, as well as the automatic, software controlledreprogramming of the operating elements by a first operating step, inorder to fulfil another task in a second operating step.

FIG. 17A through FIG. 17D, by way of the example of one-part andtwo-part display sections of the digital book according to theinvention, show the programming of the three operating elementspreferably arranged on the rear side, for a digital book in whichoperation is effected via real operating elements only.

FIG. 18A through FIG. 18E, by way of the example of one-part andtwo-part display sections/ with an additional possibility of input viathe, display area (touchscreen), show the programming of the threeoperating elements: preferably arranged on the rear side, for a digitalbook in which the real operating elements in a first function realizethe provision of operating information on the display area, for possiblesubsequent further processing or operating via a sensitive display area.

FIG. 19A through FIG. 19C, by way of the example of one-part andtwo-part display sections, show the programming of the three operatingelements for a digital book, which are preferably arranged on the rearside, as rapid-function operating elements for frequent routineoperations, using as example a first function of operating elements ofsimple operation, for example for moving the pages within a bookdocument, and processing of not so frequently required functions via thedisplay area, which are made available by touching a location on thedisplay area and which are programmed for example by initialization of acoupled book document.

FIG. 20A through FIG. 20E, by way of the example of a corner functionand a function in the middle of a lateral edge, show an embodiment ofFIG. 19A through FIG. 19C, in which the lateral edge operations in theoperations in the region of the gripping edge of the display unit arerealized in addition in document edge and/or frame in order not toirritate or disturb a document on display.

FIG. 21A through FIG. 21H, by way of the example of two corner functionsindicated in the display area, show an embodiment of FIG. 19A throughFIG. 19C, in which the lateral edge operations in the region of thegripping edge of the display unit are realized in addition in a documentedge and/or frame in order not to irritate or disturb a displayeddocument.

FIG. 22A through FIG. 22C, by way of the example of a one-partembodiment of the present invention, show the automatic andsoftware-controlled programming of operating elements and the resultingchange in the displayed operating information by a coupled memory mediumor an initialized document.

FIG. 23A through FIG. 23C, by way of the example of a two-partembodiment of the present invention, show the automatic switching overof a combined-display operating mode, during coupling of a second bookdocument with the digital book, to a separate-display operating modewith corresponding display of the document on the display area as wellas automatic switching over from a separate-display operating mode to acombined-display operating mode associated with a reverse process.

FIG. 24A through FIG. 24F, by way of the example of a two-partembodiment of the digital book according to the invention, show theactivation and/or deactivation process of the digital book associatedwith coupling of a solid-state memory, as well as the attempt ofinstalling and/or displaying the contents of the solid-state memory,which is effected automatically by coupling said solid-state element.

FIG. 25, by way of the example of a two-part embodiment of the digitalbook according to the invention, illustrates the coupling possibility ofdifferent external apparatus or means via a multifunction interfacearranged at the bottom side of the digital book and designed asinterface for cable connectors and/or of the supply station.

FIG. 26A through FIG. 26D show in exemplary manner a hardware couplingand decoupling possibility by attaching or removing different hardwareparts via the pivot hinge of a two-part digital book, which uponremoving a part is the gripping handle of a one-part digital book, inwhich electronics is accommodated.

FIG. 27A through FIG. 27E, by way of the example of a one-part startingbasis, show the coupling of an exemplary gripping handle, as describedin FIG. 26A through FIG. 26D, or of a book cover of an arbitrarymaterial shown to be flexible in the example, or the coupling of alaptop keyboard or a card station.

FIG. 28A through 28H show the ergonomic design: of the present inventionalong with the thus created compact construction and the improvedholding and operating possibilities, both of a one-part and of amulti-part digital book.

FIG. 29A through FIG. 29C show a: flexible digital book according to theinvention by way of the example of a display part, and the flexibledesign at least of the body or casing comprising the display area, as anexample of a pressure-sensitive design possibility e.g. by using anelectronics-enclosing casing of foamed material.

FIG. 30A through FIG. 30C show a flexible digital book according to theinvention, by way of the example of display part, and the flexibledesign of display area and casing, as an example of an at least partlyflexible design possibility by tightening e.g. a polymer display in acasing frame on two sides.

FIG. 31A through FIG. 31E show several flexible digital books accordingto the invention by way of the example of one-part or two-part displayunits with’ operating possibility, in which for example one or severalpolymer displays are adhered in at least partly transparent plastics orplastics-similar material for strengthening.

As already described hereinbefore, the secondary part 2 or secondaryparts 2 a, 2 b is/are designed to be electrically and/or mechanicallyseparable from the main part 1, so that the main part 1 can be usedalone. The at least one operating unit 6 contains as operating elementsdirectional keys and function keys which can be operated individually orin combination for various functions.

Display unit D may advantageously have a function to indicate a powersupply status, preferably on the screen of main part 1.

The screen 3 or screens 3, 4 of display unit D preferably is/areflexible, which holds also for the casing, so that the digital book canbe carried along like a notebook, for example in the inside pocket of ajacket. The screen 3 or screens 3, 4 advantageously may be provided withan adjustable background illumination system. The display on the screen3 or screens 3, 4 as well as the background illumination may be designedto be turned on or off automatically when the casing is folded open orshut.

The casing may be provided with a holding means (not shown) forreceiving the screen pen 15 for use as operating, writing, drawingand/or processing tool.

Hint concerning the exemplary character of what has been described.

The present invention is not restricted to the embodiments described.Rather, the expert may carry out various modifications of theembodiments without having to leave the scope of protection as it isdefined by the claims.

1-46. (canceled)
 47. A display device, in particular for displaying textand/or image information, comprising: a casing with a first part and atleast one second part, wherein the first part and the at least onesecond part are arranged in such a way that said casing can be foldedopen and shut about a folding axis like a book, and wherein a spine partis formed by the first part and the at least one second part, a displayunit with at least one display, wherein said spine part is adapted toaccommodate a battery, particularly a re-chargeable battery, for currentsupply.
 48. The display device according to claim 47, wherein said spinepart comprises a swivel joint for foldably connecting said first partand said at least one second part, wherein said swivel joint is adaptedto accommodate said battery.
 49. The display device according to claim47, wherein said spine part is adapted to accommodate a cylindricalbattery in such a way that the longitudinal axis of said battery isarranged co-axially to said folding axis.
 50. The display deviceaccording to claim 47, further comprising a control unit with means forrecording, storing, processing and reproducing information.
 51. Thedisplay device according to claim 47, further comprising an operatingunit with operating elements for using said display device as device forrecording, processing and/or reproducing information.
 52. The displaydevice according to claim 51, wherein said operating element comprisescombination key elements, particularly being arranged in a graspingborder region.
 53. The display device according to claim 47, furthercomprising an interface unit for supplying and leading away informationand for supplying energy, in particular for charging said battery. 54.The display device according to claim 47, wherein said casing,particularly said spine part, comprises counter contacts in a guidingand supplying opening for current supply and/or for supplying andleading away information.
 55. The display device according to claim 54,wherein said guiding and supplying opening is configured cylindricallysuch that the longitudinal axis of said guiding and supplying opening isarranged co-axially to said folding axis.
 56. The display deviceaccording to claim 47, wherein said first part and said at least onesecond part are mechanically and/or electrically detachably connected toeach other.
 57. The display device according to claim 47, wherein saidfirst part and said at least one second part are non-detachablyconnected to each other.
 58. The display device according to claim 47,wherein said display unit is provided in at least a two-part form and isarranged such that, in a folded open state of the casing, said firstpart with at least one display and said at least one second part with atleast one display are provided to a user like pages of a book.
 59. Thedisplay device according to claim 47, wherein a light emitting diode fordisplaying the state of charge of said battery is provided at the spinepart.
 60. The display device according to claim 47, wherein said spinepart comprises a swivel joint with two hinge parts, wherein said batteryis arranged between said hinge parts such that said hinge parts togetherwith said battery form an essentially cylindrical unit being arrangedcoaxially to the folding axis.
 61. The display device according to claim47, wherein said first part comprises said display unit and wherein saidsecond part comprises an input unit for inputting and/or manipulatingdata.
 62. The display device according to claim 61, wherein said displayunit and said input unit are arranged such that, in a folded open stateof the casing, said display unit and said input unit are presented to auser like pages of a book.
 63. The display device according to claim 61,wherein said input unit comprises a touch screen display and/or analphanumeric keyboard, in particular, a laptop keyboard.
 64. The displaydevice according to claim 62, wherein said input unit comprises a touchscreen display and/or an alphanumeric keyboard, in particular, a laptopkeyboard.